Georgia Tech defensive lineman Justin Akins has left the team as the Yellow Jackets head into spring practice. Akins had just completed his redshirt season and was to compete for a spot in the defensive line rotation.

His departure was first reported by Jackets Online Wednesday morning. Last week, defensive line coach Mike Pelton alluded to difficulties Akins was facing, saying “Right now, Justin’s going through some stuff off the field we’ve got to get straight before we can get him on the field.”

Akins came to Tech from Jackson High in Butts County.